President John Dramani Mahama has led the nation in mourning the eight Ghanaians who died in Wednesday’s tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, describing the incident as a “moment of shared heartbreak” and urging national unity during this time of grief.
Delivering a solemn national address on the evening of Thursday, August 7, the President called for dignity, empathy, and collective reflection, saying:
“Your loss is our loss – a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who tirelessly worked for a better Ghana.”
The crash claimed the lives of five senior public servants and three members of the Ghana Armed Forces, namely; Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, and MP for Tamale Central; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo.
President Mahama revealed that many of the victims were not only colleagues, but dear friends. “This tragedy represents a deep personal loss for me,” he said, recalling their professionalism, loyalty, and friendship.
READ: Helicopter crash: Gov’t announces programme for 3-day national mourning
The President’s address follows days of national outpouring, with tributes pouring in from political parties, international bodies, foreign governments, religious leaders, and civil society groups. The Minority and Majority Caucuses in Parliament, the National Democratic Congress, and the New Patriotic Party have all issued statements of condolence.
Minister of Communications, Sam George, penned a raw emotional tribute, calling Dr. Omane Boamah his “compass” and “big brother.” Former President Akufo-Addo also offered his condolences, as have leaders from across Africa, including the AU Commission Chair, Germany’s Embassy, and the presidents of Sierra Leone, Kenya, and Namibia.
President Mahama confirmed that a Board of Inquiry had been established to investigate the cause of the crash. The flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved, and authorities are working closely with the bereaved families on identification and final interment arrangements.
He also outlined the official three-day national mourning programme, which included the Public candle-lighting and flower-laying ceremony held yesterday at the Ceremonial Gardens.
Friday, August 8, for continuation of public memorials, and Saturday, August 9, for Evening of Reflections and Memorial at the Forecourt of the State House
Books of condolence will open at key institutions from August 10 – 14. A state funeral will be held on Friday, August 15 at Black Star Square.
As Ghana enters a period of deep national mourning, President Mahama urged unity over division:
READ: Mahama sets Aug 15 for State funeral of helicopter crash victims
“This is not a time for political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails.”
“Though they are gone from our sight,” he added, “they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served.”
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
